The Running Horse Guest House Winchester Exterior photoThe Running Horse Guest House Winchester Exterior photoThe Running Horse Guest House Winchester Exterior photo

The Running Horse – A Favorite for Families in Winchester

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Check rooms and rates
From$248 /night
Check-in
07Sept
Check-out
08Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

88 Main Road, Winchester, SO22 6QS
-
Near Winchester Cathedral
Great
8.8
/10
5.0
4.3
/5

15th-century village inn, 12 minutes from Winchester Cathedral

Accommodation

The Running Horse offers 15 rooms set in converted stable blocks around a paddock-style courtyard. Each room has a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, a Roberts DAB radio, and a Nespresso coffee machine. Rooms include a Dyson fan, a mini fridge with fresh milk, and a stable door that opens onto a small terrace.

Dining & Drinks

The restaurant serves a seasonal menu made with locally sourced produce, including an award-winning full English breakfast. The bar offers a selection of ales, fine wines, and seasonal cocktails, with an outdoor seating area for warmer months. Special diet menus are available, and a children's menu is offered for family dining.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

Dogs are welcomed with a dog bed, blanket, bowl, and a welcome box of treats for £20 per pet per night. Up to two dogs can stay per room in designated dog-friendly bedrooms. The hotel also provide a pet basket and pet bowls, and the surrounding countryside offers walking trails for dog walks.

Location & Activities

The hotel is situated in Littleton, a 12-minute drive from Winchester city center and a 25-minute drive from New Forest National Park. Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, is within easy reach, as is Marwell Zoo. The M3 motorway is 4 miles away, and the A34 is less than a 5-minute drive from the property.

Family-Friendly Offerings

The hotel offers a family room that accommodates up to two adults and two children. Kids' meals are available from a dedicated children's menu, and the outdoor courtyard and garden provide space for play. The hotel's location near Marwell Zoo and New Forest National Park makes it a convenient base for family outings.

Highlights

Rooms: Converted stable blocks with private terrace

Dining: Locally sourced seasonal menu and Sunday roasts

Pet Policy: Dog bed, blanket, bowl, and treat box included

Location: 12 min from Winchester, 25 min from New Forest

Parking: Free onsite parking with accessible spaces

“The Running Horse strikes me as a characterful choice near Winchester, blending a rural pub setting with dog-friendly lodging. I noted the stylishly renovated interiors and unique themed accommodations, complemented by locally-sourced dining; its proximity to both the city center and New Forest National Park enhances its appeal. It would be a good base for those seeking a blend of countryside charm and convenient access.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
  • Family Room
    2 persons
    18 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Large Double or Twin Room
    2 persons
    16 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Coffee machine
  • Twin Room
    2 persons
    16 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Coffee machine
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Running Horse offers a delightful dining experience combining family-friendly charm with local flavors. Guests can enjoy quality ales and unique crafts inspired by the region, perfect for any meal throughout the day.
  • Restaurant #1

    Casual family dining
    Ambiance
    A warm and welcoming pub atmosphere, designed for families and casual gatherings, with areas for relaxation and enjoyment.
    Key Offerings
    Features a children's menu alongside local ales, including the Punter and Tipster on tap, and the distinct Winchester Twisted Nose gin infused with watercress. Engage in the fun Sunday pub quiz for an interactive dining experience.
    Reservation
    Not needed.
    Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Running Horse Location

88 Main Road, Winchester, SO22 6QS
Explore Winchester
Explore Winchester Closely
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral
10-minute drive
Stunning medieval architecture and rich history await at this iconic cathedral known for its beautiful stained glass and tranquil gardens.
The Great Hall
The Great Hall
40 minutes walking
Famous for housing the legendary Arthur's Round Table, this medieval hall offers insight into Winchester's storied past.
Flowerdown Bowl Barrow
Flowerdown Bowl Barrow
10 minutes walking
This ancient burial mound offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll.
Winnall Moors Nature Reserve
40 minutes walking
A tranquil habitat for diverse wildlife, this nature reserve has walking paths and picnic areas, ideal for nature lovers.
Walking Tours
10-minute drive
Guided walking tours offering insight into Winchester's history and architecture, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Winnall Moors Nature Reserve
40 minutes walking
A serene escape for relaxing strolls or bird-watching; great for both families and solo adventurers.
Winchester Bike Hire
15-minute drive
Bike rentals available for exploring the scenic countryside and nearby trails, perfect for thrill-seekers.
The Running Horse
1-minute walk
This gastropub offers an inviting atmosphere with classic British dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
The Wykeham Arms
10-minute drive
A historic pub with a cozy atmosphere; known for its extensive wine list and gourmet pub food. Reservations recommended.
Chococo
25 minutes walking
Famous for its handcrafted chocolates and desserts, this café provides an exquisite spot to indulge your sweet tooth.
Theatre Royal Winchester
10-minute drive
This theater offers a wide range of performances from drama to comedy, with a charming setting and lively vibe.
The Discovery Centre
10-minute drive
A hub for local events, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities, this center caters to all ages and interests.
Winchester Comedy Festival
10-minute drive
An annual event featuring local and national comedians, perfect for a fun night out during the festival season.
Tips on navigating the city
  • City Centre
    Winchester 7 min  ·  2.5 mi
  • Airports
    Southampton (SOU) 37 min  ·  15.2 mi
    Bournemouth (BOH) 104 min  ·  42.9 mi
  • Train
    Winchester Train Station 6 min  ·  2.2 mi
    Winchester Railway Station 6 min  ·  2.2 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 7 min  ·  2.8 mi
Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway
Book now and enjoy exclusive rates on your family vacation!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:30
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
23

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review score
Based on 613 verified reviews
8.7 /10
Great
91 %
Recommend
Breakfast
9.1/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free WiFi
8.8/10
Location
9.1/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Pros
Good bed
Friendly team
Spotless room
Excellent dinner
Cons
Dreadful main courses
Guest reviews
based on 1122 reviews
8.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About The Running Horse
How far is The Running Horse from Winchester city centre?
The hotel is located 4 km from Winchester city centre.
What is the nearest airport to The Running Horse?
Southampton Airport is 25 km away, approximately a 24-minute drive.
Which major attractions are near The Running Horse?
Nearby attractions include Winchester Cathedral (3 km), New Forest National Park (25 km), and Marwell Zoo (approximately 22 minutes by car).
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Running Horse?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What amenities can guests expect in rooms at The Running Horse?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, Roberts DAB radio, hair dryer, Nespresso coffee machine, and toiletries.
Is there Wi-Fi available at The Running Horse?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What dining options are available at The Running Horse?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving locally sourced British cuisine and a bar offering ales, fine wines, and cocktails.
Is there parking available at The Running Horse?
Free onsite parking is available for guests.
What breakfast options does The Running Horse offer?
Breakfast includes choices from a cooked breakfast menu and a selection of continental items, along with juice and hot beverages.
Does The Running Horse accommodate pets?
Pets are allowed with special packages available for £20 per pet, per night.
Are there any family-friendly features at The Running Horse?
The hotel offers a children's menu and a family-friendly environment.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at The Running Horse?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing in the surrounding countryside.
What style of accommodations does The Running Horse offer?
The hotel features stylishly restored rooms with character and charm in a cozy, countryside pub setting.

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